Best Duffel bags and Daypacks for Kilimanjaro
Think of your main bag like a check-in bag on an airplane. Once you check in that bag, you don’t see it until at the baggage claim of your final destination. Once you have packed your main bag, a porter will take it from camp and bring it to the next camp. The next time you see your main bag will be when it is inside your tent at the next campsite. You will not have any access to the things inside this bag during your day hikes. Your main bag cannot weigh over 33 lbs when fully packed. Your main bag can be either a duffel bag or a backpack.
Best Duffel bags for Kilimanjaro
If you choose to take a duffel bag with you for your trip to Kilimanjaro, be sure to select one that it sturdy enough to make the long trip and comfortable enough to carry for a long way.
Before you buy a duffel bag, make sure to check the bag’s material, zipper, and durability. The material of your duffel bag needs to be able to withstand the outdoor elements, and it needs to be dependably constructed. It should also be comfortable enough for your porter to carry on his head. In addition, the zipper should be able to lock so it doesn’t accidentally slip.
Best Daypacks for Kilimanjaro
Of course, you’ll also need a backpack for your trip up the mountain. While your porter will carry your duffel bag, you’ll need to carry the day’s necessities in your own backpack.
Your backpack will be your best friend during your hike up Kilimanjaro, so make sure you pick a good one! Here are a few things to think about when choosing a backpack:
The daypack should have compression straps to reduce the weight stress on the back.
Your daypack should have mesh pockets on the sides to hold water bottles and snacks.
Your backpack should come with a rain cover to keep everything from getting soaked.
So what exactly do you need in your day pack?
The heaviest item in your day pack by far will be water. We recommend carrying at least 2 liters of water each day. This can be carried in a Camelbak, multiple water bottles or both. Read more about water in our article titled, Water on Kilimanjaro. You will also be carrying a box lunch on certain days. You should have your rain gear, which includes a rain jacket and pants and a rain cover for your daypack. Depending on the weather, you will bring additional clothing layers.
Other items that will be in your daypack are:
Snacks, Powerbars
Camera equipment
Toilet paper
sunscreen
Climbing Kilimanjaro is a formidable undertaking, so it’s important to have the right supplies when you go! The real challenge isn’t the hike itself—it’s surviving for days out of a backpack. Do yourself a favor and get equipped with the right gear for the climb.